Tag Archives: Lise Poirier

Lise Poirier came to Laurentian in September 1991 after having served in the armed forces and working in the mining sector. Since then, she has been a fixture to life on campus. Not only does she keep us all safe, but is a staple at convocation, greeting graduates and guests dressed in her finest uniform.

Dr. Jorge Virchez started teaching in the Geography Department in 1991. Arguably one of the nicest people on campus, his friendly and supportive demeanour has had a lasting impact on students and colleagues alike.

Michelle K. Brunette started at Laurentian in 2001 as Manager of International Student Recruitment with Laurentian International. Throughout her career, she has continued to pursue her graduate studies while raising her young children. I can’t help but take note of how generous she is with her time – she will not hesitate to lend a helping hand, especially during one of her famous walking meetings!

These are just a few of the stories I have been thinking about since hosting our celebration on January 26th of recent retirees and Laurentian and Federated University employees last week. These colleagues were recognized for having dedicated 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40 and 45 years of service. This celebration has become one of the highlights of the year for the Laurentian community.

This is an event I look forward to every year. The university is all about its people. Faculty and staff are the ones who make Laurentian such a special place to work and study and you are the ones who have helped propel Laurentian into this “new league.” You work extremely hard and I see it every day.

Dr. Serge Demers was our Master of Ceremony… and once again, the event was filled with his warm and “punny” remarks.

Bill Sanders made us all howl with laughter at another round of wonderful videos celebrating our honourees. Silvie Allard and I were featured prominently this year and I can only say that Bill can make you do or say pretty much anything!

A huge thank you to the whole team in Human Resources and Organizational Development, Suzanne Chartrand in particular, for the work you have not only put into this event, but also for the work you do for all of us on a daily basis.

After the ceremony, I had a chance to speak with many honourees, attendees, Governors and retirees who took the time to came back on campus to celebrate their former colleagues. For many, this was the first time that they attended LU Rendez-vous and they were visibly filled with joy. One colleague commented how, after convocation, this was her favourite event of the year.

I couldn’t agree more. Once again, thank you to those who were honoured at LU Rendez-vous, and to each of you who will be honoured in the years to come.